Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Small public gatherings

While we are in a much better situation than we were in 2020, COVID-19 is still around and the virus is circulating in all countries. Population immunity from vaccination and past infection(s) are providing protection from developing severe disease and death. As such, in the fourth year of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is no zero risk when it comes to any kind of gathering – especially events that bring groups of people together.

Regardless of the size of the event, you are at risk from COVID-19 whenever you get together in crowded, enclosed or poorly ventilated settings. The virus that causes COVID-19 spreads through the air between people, often when in close proximity to another person and more easily indoors, especially in poorly ventilated settings.  

If you feel unwell or show any symptoms of COVID-19, get tested. If the test is positive, stay at home.

If you choose to attend a gathering, ensure you keep following these personal protective measures:

• wear a well-fitting mask and keep a safe distance from others, as feasible
• avoid crowds and keep indoor spaces well-ventilated;
• always practice respiratory etiquette by covering coughs and sneezes;
• clean your hands regularly;
• stay up to date with vaccinations;
• stay home if you are sick;
• consider self-testing with a rapid test before attending the event, as you could be infected without showing symptoms; and
• get tested if you have symptoms or you’ve been exposed to COVID-19.

These measures are a good idea to protect yourself and others, even when the event or venue doesn’t require you to practice them.  

Organizers and attendees of any gathering should always take caution, regardless of the size and type of the event and whether they are planned or spontaneous. This applies to private or community celebrations, sports matches, religious gatherings, etc.

If you are hosting an event, consider using an outdoor space. The virus that causes COVID-19 spreads easily indoors, especially in poorly ventilated settings. Outdoor venues are safer than indoor spaces.

Make your event as safe as possible for guests and ensure good ventilation if the event is held indoors.

Make sure to thoroughly clean the area where the gathering is held. This is important for COVID-19 as well as other infectious diseases. Help your guests follow COVID-19 basic prevention measures: provide masks, options for hand hygiene including alcohol-based hand sanitizer or access to soap and water and encourage respiratory etiquette (covering the mouth and nose with a bent elbow or a tissue when they cough or sneeze).

Continue to encourage event attendees to take personal protective measures such as staying home when sick, seeking medical advice if at risk of severe disease, wearing a well-fitting mask and keeping a distance, as feasible, practicing respiratory etiquette, and hand hygiene and staying up to date with vaccinations.

As always, follow guidance issued by local public health authorities before you plan a gathering.